Jacobs steps up for the Scorpions

A seven-wicket haul from leg-spinner Damion Jacobs has put Jamaica Scorpions in a good position against Leeward Islands Hurricanes heading into day three of their penultimate round Cricket West Indies-Digicel Four-day Championship clash at Sabina Park.

Jacobs ended with figures of seven for 74, as the Hurricanes, chasing the Scorpions modest first innings total of 197, were bowled out for 171.

Batting a second time, Jamaica, who trailed the Leewards on points heading into the clash, were 182 for seven, for an overall lead of 208 runs.

Jacobs, one, and all-rounder Derval Green, yet to score, are down to resume batting when play gets under way at 10 a.m. today.

''It was a good showing as the team was in a spot of bother after our first innings batting, and needed someone to step up,'' said Jacobs, who at the end of the first day had figures of three for 41.

''I knew I was bowling well in the nets, and in the previous games, but was just not getting the desired results. However, in this game, I started well and the ball felt good coming out of my hand, and from here on it is just for me to remain consistent.''

The 32-year-old Jacobs, who was claiming his 12th five-wicket haul at the first-class level in 44 matches, was best supported by captain Nikita Miller, who picked up two for 32.

West Indies Under-19 World Cup winning batsman Kaecy Carty, who resumed the day on 20, and West Indies 'A' wicketkeeper Jahmar Hamilton, 17, went on to make 78 and 40, respectively.

Jamaica, in their second turn at bat, saw Jermaine Blackwood and John Campbell posting shot-filled half-centuries.

Blackwood, who hit a topscore of 81 in the first innings, went on to score 70 off 97 balls, including eight crisp fours and a six, while Campbell made 55 with seven fours and a six.